Aptolux launches modular, variable LED lighting solution for photos and videos: Digital photography review

Aptolux wanted to create video lights ‘for videographers, for videographers.’ The company’s first product to pursue that goal was Aptolux MP-1. The MP-1 is a modular lighting system that can be resized and shaped based on the needs of the videographer or photographer.

Photographer and filmmaker Alvis Rozenbergs founded Aptolux and has spent the past few years developing a modular lighting system that solves the problems he has had with lighting during his career. The Rosenbergs found that the lights were heavy, expensive, difficult to repair, and didn’t perform well enough in different roles. Enter MP-1.

The first phase of the MP-1’s development involved asking more than 100 videographers from around the world what they wanted from professional-quality lights. After a prototype was built, another 500 videographers provided feedback and suggestions. ‘I’ve been acting for over 10 years now. Shooting in different locations has always been an important part of the job, and trips between them can be challenging. Carry a bag with all the necessary gear or have to choose from all the lighting options, so I decided to make my own, portable and versatile video light, says Rozenbergs.

The Aptolux MP-1 includes up to six light panels that can be adjusted to form different shapes and sizes. When disassembled, the MP-1 is about the size of a lunch box and can be easily slipped into a backpack. When in use, the MP-1 promises high-quality bicolor, RGB, and dynamic lighting effects.

The six panels are 20W light sources each, so combined in the full set of six panels, the MP-1 provides a light source of up to 120W. The MP-1 is designed to replace conventional lighting panels including small and medium panels, bar lights, strip lights (up to 140cm or 4.6′), ring lights and even large light panels. Each panel light 2000 lumens. Adjustable color temperature ranges from 3000 to 6000K, and color accuracy is rated at CRI 96, TLCI 97. Additional features include 0 to 100% dimming and 30 dynamic lighting effects .

Aptolux MP-1 is now available for pre order until November 18. The starter kit is $300 and includes two consoles. A set of four boards is $600 and a set of six boards is $850. The early sale price is 40% off the final retail price. Various lighting accessories are in production, including diffuser, honeycomb grid, detachable lens array, wireless control adapter, softbox holder, mounting plate, c-mount and bracket help. For more information, visit Aptolux.